In the Early Childhood field of teaching, especially the
Prek years, we consider the environment the third teacher…
1.) Classroom Arrangement
The arrangement of
a Prek classroom should allow at least two children in every learning center so
that interaction with others is easy. Furniture will be set up so that there is
an accessible path throughout the classroom but not enough open space to
encourage running or wrestling. All learning areas will be arranged so there is
no question to what is supposed to happen in a particular area. For example,
the art supplies are close proximity to the art table or easel. Pictures are
placed on the shelves so that things can be returned to their proper place. All
shelves and furniture will be arranged so that from any point in the classroom
I, the teacher, can see into all learning centers.
2.) Establishing and Maintaining Teacher Student Relationships
To me, one of the
most important aspects of teaching preschoolers is making them feel safe,
secure and supported so that learning can be exciting and fun. As a teacher, every
day, I want to be able to say "good morning" with a smile, and help transition
them from their families to the classroom. I want to truly care and respect
each child. Showing that I am happy to see them every day and that I truly care
for them will lead to each child feeling safe enough for us to have
relationship with mutual respect.
3.) Monitoring What Students are doing
When monitoring
the preschool children in my class I want them to know I know what they are
doing. I will do this by being in different learning areas throughout the day
with the children. When I am with the children I will be making eye contact,
listening to their ideas, giving them the opportunity show me their work, and
simply being a presence as the children work. I hope this
"withitness" will lead to the children having appropriate classroom
behavior.
4.) Create an Effective Physiological Climate
In preschool one
so the most effective ways we create an effective physiological climate if
through daily routines. Daily routines are posted and followed so that there is
no anxiety or question about what is supposed to happen next. This routine
allows the children to feel secure so that they are able to focus on other
things, such as, learning areas. Learning areas are the where preschools do the
majority of their work. I'm my classroom children will be able to choose which
area they would like to work and what they would like to do their. Giving them
the choice to where they would like play will gives them the opportunity to
have control.
5.) Planning activities that Keep Students on task
Getting preschool
children to stay on task is not easy job. The learning areas I have been
referring to should have enough activities, on the children's current
developmental level, in them so that children can do worthwhile activities. An
area that is to empty, overly stocked or to challenging could confuse the
children forcing them to misbehave.
It is interesting to read your 5 areas that make an environment conducive to learning because you are designing a classroom setting for Pre-K students. As a Psychology major, I know the role development plays in early childhood and your responses seemed very developmentally accurate! You know what you are talking about.
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